When someone in the family passes away, it's important to know never keep these 4 relics

1) Unused prescription medicines and controlled substances
Why not keep them:

They’re a health and safety risk

(accidental ingestion by children, pets, or other household members).
Controlled drugs can be diverted or misused by others.

Keeping medications you’re not legally authorized to possess can create legal problems

in some jurisdictions.
What to do instead:

Return them to a pharmacy that runs a drug take-back program, or follow your local health authority’s instructions for safe disposal (many areas have drop-off sites or mail-back programs).

If no take-back program is available, mix pills with an unpalatable material (coffee grounds, cat litter), place in a sealed bag, and put in household trash — but check local rules first.



2) Soiled clothing, dressings, or linens contaminated with bodily fluids
Why not keep them:

Bodily fluids (blood, wound drainage, vomit, urine) can carry pathogens and foster bacterial or fungal growth.

Long-term storage can cause odors, mold, and attract pests.

Handling these items without protection risks infection.

What to do instead:

Use gloves and sealed bags to remove contaminated items. Launder heavily soiled items separately at high temperature, or dispose of them if they’re saturated and cannot be cleaned.

For medical waste (saturated dressings, pads), use biohazard disposal if available or follow local health authority guidance.

3) Sharp medical supplies and single-use devices (needles, syringes, lancets, catheter parts)
Why not keep them:

They pose a serious injury and infection risk (needlestick injuries can transmit bloodborne pathogens).

They are regulated as medical waste in many places and must be handled appropriately.

What to do instead:

Place sharps in an approved hard sharps container and return to a pharmacy or community sharps disposal program. Never throw loose needles into household trash or recycling.

4) Perishable food, open beverages, or cosmetics past their use-by date
Why not keep them:

Perishable food left in a deceased person’s refrigerator or cupboards can spoil quickly, producing bacteria and mold that are health hazards.

Opened cosmetics, creams, or makeup can harbor microbes and cause skin infections if reused.

Keeping spoiled food or contaminated products creates foul odor and pest problems.

What to do instead:

Throw away perishable foods that have been unrefrigerated or are past best-by dates. Clean the fridge and pantry thoroughly.

Discard opened cosmetics older than their recommended period; unopened, sealed products may be donated if still in date and hygienic.



Extra practical & emotional tips
Keep meaningful, clean mementos only.

A small, clean personal item (a photograph, a piece of jewelry that belonged to them) is usually better than boxes of everything.
Inventory valuables and important documents (ID, will, insurance, titles) —

do not discard these. They belong in a safe place and to the estate process.
Ask for help. If the deceased required medical care, contact the home health agency or hospice team — they often provide guidance or services for safe disposal. Local pharmacies, public health departments, or community waste programs can advise on medication and sharps disposal.

If you feel overwhelmed emotionally, don’t rush decisions. Store things temporarily in sealed containers and dispose of or sort them once you are emotionally ready or with the help of a trusted friend or service.

Women should know the following 5 types

🌸 5 Foods Rich in Estrogen (Phytoestrogens)
Soy Products (tofu, soy milk, edamame, tempeh)

Why: Soy contains isoflavones, a plant-based estrogen that helps balance female hormones, improve skin elasticity, and support bone health.

Daily amount: About 1–2 servings (e.g., 1 cup soy milk or 100g tofu).

Too much: May cause bloating, digestive discomfort, and in rare cases hormone imbalance if consumed in very large amounts daily for long periods.

Flaxseeds

Why: Rich in lignans (a type of phytoestrogen) and omega-3 fatty acids that improve skin health and reduce inflammation.

Daily amount: 1–2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds.

Too much: Excess can cause diarrhea, gas, or interfere with thyroid function in sensitive people.


Sesame Seeds

Why: High in lignans, calcium, and healthy fats, they support hormonal balance and bone strength.

Daily amount: 1–2 tablespoons (sprinkled on salads, oatmeal, or smoothies).

Too much: Overeating may cause weight gain because of high calories.

Chickpeas (and other legumes)

Why: Contain phytoestrogens plus protein, fiber, and minerals that support hormone regulation and gut health.

Daily amount: ½–1 cup cooked chickpeas.

Too much: May cause gas or bloating due to fiber.

Dried Fruits (especially apricots, prunes, dates)

Why: Rich in phytoestrogens, antioxidants, and vitamins that promote glowing skin and anti-aging effects.

Daily amount: 3–5 pieces (small handful).

Too much: Can lead to excess sugar intake, weight gain, and blood sugar spikes.

⚠️ If You Overeat Estrogen-Rich Foods
Hormonal imbalance (irregular menstrual cycle, breast tenderness).

Weight gain due to high calories in seeds and dried fruits.

Digestive issues like bloating and gas.

In rare cases, thyroid interference (mainly with very high soy/flax intake).

Balance is key — these foods are beneficial when eaten moderately every day as part of a varied diet.



🏃 Recommended Exercise for a Healthy, Youthful Body
Strength Training (2–3 times/week): Helps build lean muscle, boost metabolism, and support bone density (which estrogen protects).

Cardio (150 minutes/week): Brisk walking, cycling, or swimming improves heart health and circulation, giving skin a healthy glow.

Flexibility & Balance (2–3 times/week): Yoga, Pilates, or stretching reduce stress, improve posture, and keep joints strong.

Daily Movement: Take stairs, walk after meals, do light stretches at home to avoid sedentary habits.

✅ Summary: Eating soy, flaxseeds, sesame seeds, chickpeas, and dried fruits in moderation supports estrogen levels, skin health, and youthful energy. Pair them with balanced exercise (strength, cardio, flexibility) for overall vitality.